Honors English 4
Mr. Dunphy
Comparison/Contrast Essay
Beowulf
****Due: Friday, October 5th Worth 200 points
In Anglo-Saxon society, Beowulf demonstrated bravery and courage in the face of danger. Who is a real life, modern-day hero of our time and culture? If Beowulf mirrors Anglo-Saxon society and its ideals, then who represents ours? Choose someone whom you think is a hero our time, and compare and contrast this hero with Beowulf. What traits do they share? In what ways are they different, and what do those ways reveal about the Anglo Saxon society and ours? Develop a focused and coherent analysis that is supported with specific detail.
Notes:
Anglo Saxon Values:
1. Honoring courage over long life
2. Enjoying storytelling, feasting and music
3. Viewing life fatalistically
4. Admiring physical strength more than intellect
5. Valuing loyalty to the king above all
6. Not concerned with afterlife; glory of memory most important
**Consider your hero. What are they like? What qualities do they possess? Think about what
these qualities reveal about American culture.